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The 16th Light Dragoons is a new unit
within the NA, and the 2009 season was our first.
We are a family based unit that has grown out of the other cavalry
groups and individuals new to the hobby.
We take part in domestic and international battle re-enactments,
battle proms and we also actively compete at national skill at arms
events organised by the
BTPA
In order to take part in these events we train throughout the winter
to polish our skills and learn new ones. We also have an active
training regime which helps new members learn these new skills
safely and so they gain confidence and have fun - which is the
reason we do all of this anyway..!!
On March the 31st 1809, the 16th Light Dragoons, commanded by
Colonel George Anson, sailed from Falmouth and disembarked at Lisbon
on April 13th. During their time in the Peninsular, the 16th fought
at Talevera, Busaco, Fuentes de Onőro, Salamanca, Vittoria, and on
entering France, Nivelle and Nive.
Napoleon's confinement on Elba was short lived and on the 1st of
March 1815 he escaped from the island and returned to France
overthrowing the newly installed monarchy. The old allies
immediately declared war on Napoleon and dispatched armies to the
Low Countries in preparation for the perceived threat from France.
Wellington was appointed Commander in Chief and on the 11th of April
the 16th Light Dragoons embarked for the Continent.
The 16th were heavily engaged throughout the day, initially to
support the Heavy Brigade under Sir William Ponsonby, which had been
ordered to charge retreating French infantry but had pushed the
charge too far. As a result, once their horses were blown, they
found themselves far from friendly lines and being countered by
French lancers as they attempted to rally. It was only the timely
intervention of the 16th, which prevented the total destruction of
the Heavy Brigade.
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